Mataf bridge removal from Feb. 9

MAKKAH: The temporary bridges over the mataf, the circumambulation area around the Kaaba, would be removed over a period from Feb. 9 to March 9. This plan is contained in a technical report filed by a government-appointed committee to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, deputy premier and interior minister, according to a report in a local publication on Monday. The committee, chaired by Bakri Assas, director of Umm Al-Qura University, recently held its 22nd meeting to discuss various aspects of the project. He urged everyone to work hard to ensure that the project is completed, which would improve services for pilgrims. He said the work currently taking place at the Grand Mosque and other places in Makkah was the largest in the history of the Kingdom. More than 14,000 engineers, technicians and workers have been working on the project to increase the capacity of the mataf. After completion, it will accommodate about 105,000 worshipers per hour. The project includes central air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, sound systems, clocks and surveillance cameras. Pilgrims will be able to perform the tawaf, circumambulation of the Kaaba, on the first floor and terrace. All the upper floors will be connected with escalators. Arab News